Staff Volunteering policy launched

Colleagues will have the opportunity to take up to two days of additional leave (pro rata for part-time staff) to volunteer with local organisations as part of the new Time to Make a Difference policy.  

Available from 1 October 2024, the additional leave will allow colleagues to dedicate more time to causes they care about, whether through continuing a current voluntary role or by trying something new. Teams can also use the time to volunteer as a group.  

The University is committed to engaging with the local community and the Time to Make a Difference policy will allow staff to feel part of the community, while developing their own skills, sharing their expertise, and making an impact. 

Commitment to volunteering 

James Magee, an Associate Director in Technical Services, recently volunteered with local homelessness charity Launchpad. As well as helping people in the community through his volunteer work, he’s also organised visits to campus by the charity’s service users to find out more about what it’s like to work at the University.  

James said: “When I first enquired about volunteering, I was keen to ensure all my commitments would still be covered.  

“The University, and the charity were supportive and flexible; it was helpful to the charity that I could dedicate a specific time slot on a regular basis but there were obviously times when I needed to make alternative arrangements.  

“Having a known, agreed quantity of time that I could work with, really worked for everyone. Early and transparent communication was the key.” 

Karen Henderson, Director of Research and Innovation, said: “Last year, we were able to make some time available for James to volunteer during his working hours. The result was highly satisfying for all involved.   

“It was an opportunity to develop new skills, contribute to making a difference and in addition, it increased our awareness across the team of some of the great work that goes on in the community.   

“The new volunteering policy has been developed following feedback from many colleagues at the University. It is very welcome and demonstrates our commitment to volunteering.” 

How to use the time off 

To use the time off, staff must speak to their line managers, who must then approve the request to take time off and submit the leave approval form. Full details of the policy and the required forms can be found on the HR website.  

If you’d like ideas of how to use your days, you may want to visit Reading Voluntary Action's website or view Connect Reading's list of opportunities in the Reading area.